In a recent study conducted at CHOP, Teresa Victoria, MD, PhD, Ann Johnson, MD, and colleagues found that performing MRIs at 3 Tesla (T) versus 1.5T can produce higher-quality images. Using this higher magnet strength, their team was better able to depict fetal anatomic structures, such as the spine, bowel, liver and kidneys. Imaging at 3T has the potential to provide increased signal, faster scan times, and increased anatomic visualization.

MRI is routinely used in pregnant women. To date, there has been no indication that the use of clinical MR imaging during pregnancy has produced harmful effects. MRI in pregnancy is considered a standard of care by the American College of Radiology.